Barkskin
2024 Rules
- Level & School
- 2nd-level transmutation
- Casting Time
- Bonus action
- Range
- Touch
- Components
- V, S, M (a handful of bark)
- Duration
- 1 hour
- Classes
- Druid, Ranger
You touch a willing creature. Until the spell ends, the target's skin assumes a bark-like appearance, and the target has an Armor Class of 17 if its AC is lower than that.
2014 Rules
- Level & School
- 2nd-level transmutation
- Casting Time
- Action
- Range
- Touch
- Components
- V, S, M (a handful of oak bark)
- Duration
- Concentration, 1 hour
- Classes
- Druid, Ranger
You touch a willing creature. Until the spell ends, the target's skin has a rough, bark-like appearance, and the target's AC can't be less than 16, regardless of what kind of armor it is wearing.
Barkskin 5.5e 2024 vs. 5e 2014 edition differences
Barkskin popularity
How popular is Barkskin? It is a commonly found spell in the game, and is often chosen over other options when available. This spell is a reliable addition to any spellbook.
- Top 50% picked level 2 Druid spell
- Top 50% picked level 2 Ranger spell
- Top 50% of all 5e spells
- Bottom 50% of all level 2 spells
Spells similar to Barkskin
Pass without Trace 2nd-level abjuration
Though it buffs stealth rather than AC, it’s a level 2 druid/ranger spell that grants an hour-long, party-focused protective benefit in similar situations.
Players prefer Pass without Trace over Barkskin
Mage Armor 1st-level abjuration
It sets a target's baseline armor class through a touch spell and is often chosen for the same defensive purpose.
Players prefer Mage Armor over Barkskin
Shield of Faith 1st-level abjuration
Both are short-to-medium duration buff spells used to increase a creature's survivability in combat.
Players prefer Shield of Faith over Barkskin
Warding Bond 2nd-level abjuration
This touch spell provides a protective benefit to a willing ally for an hour, trading off effects between caster and target like other defensive buffs.
Players prefer Warding Bond over Barkskin
Enhance Ability 2nd-level transmutation
It’s a level 2 transmutation that touches a willing creature to grant a beneficial, hour-long enhancement similar in support role and school.
Players prefer Barkskin over Enhance Ability